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‘The War of the Worlds’ is H. G. Wells’ most popular novel and is celebrated as one of the most influential and greatest science-fiction stories ever. Its popularity stems largely from the fact that it is one of the earliest stories dealing with an alien invasion on Earth. An army of Martians lands in England and their three-legged robots wreak havoc and destruction upon the unsuspecting civilians. The protagonist is separated from his wife during the onslaught and must defeat the invaders and find his wife. This thrilling novel features non-stop action from the start as the protagonist must journey through a nightmarish world in which aliens are not the only monsters. The novel remains timeless due to its critique of imperialism and its belief that civilisation will turn to other planets once their native resources have been plundered. Well’s vivid and terrifying imagery caused widespread panic when ‘The War of the Worlds’ was broadcast as a radio play in 1938 as people believed the invasion was real. The novel spawned an Academy Award-nominated movie adaptation directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Tom Cruise in 2005. It is clear to see why ‘The War of the Worlds’ remains influential as it is the definition of a page-turner and should be read by fans of authors such as George Orwell or Frank Herbert.H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a celebrated English writer, remembered mostly for his science fiction works. Often described as a futurist, H. G. Wells’ influence cannot be overstated for his works foresaw many technological innovations such as space travel, the atomic bomb, and the Internet. A four-time Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, Wells explored a wide array of themes in his works, from religion to social criticism and beyond. Some of his best works include the time-travel novel ‘The Time Machine’, the sci-fi adventure novel ‘The Island of Dr. Moreau’, and the mankind-versus-aliens novel ‘The War of the Worlds’. Wells occupies one of the central seats in the canon of science-fiction literature and his writing inspired other celebrated authors such as Ray Bradbury and Philip K. Dick. Wells’ stories are still widely read to this day and have had numerous cinematic adaptations including ‘The Invisible Man’ starring Elisabeth Moss.

Evelyn's pride and high standards lead her to marry a man she doesn't love, while leaving the man she does love in the past as a piece of history. Her true love is one who is "e;rich in youth, comeliness, talent, and ardor"e;, but poor in "e;fortune and friends"e;. 'Doctor Dorn's Revenge' is a tragic story about a love triangle gone wrong. It also incorporates a potent social critique of the institution of marriage as it existed in the 19th century.A poignant and thought-provoking novel written by one of America's leading suffragettes, 'Doctor Dorn's Revenge' is the perfect for fans of strong female characters in 19th century literature. Recommended for fans of the 2019 movie 'Little Women' based off the famous novel by Alcott - starring Florence Pugh, Emma Watson, Saoirse Ronan and Timothee Chalamet.-

Stella Barrington a wealthy trainer and stable owner comes across a mysterious tramp one day at the stables after he has fended off an attack from some fellow tramps. Impressed by his demeanour and stature and assuming him to be a war veteran she offers him the position of Head Lad in her stable. Bill the tramp accepts, and joins the team as they compete at the worlds most renowned race tracks. However, a rival stable plots on their downfall, seeking to topple the premier stable once and for all they will stop at nothing to crush Stella. Soon Bill begins to raise questions in Stella’s mind as well, is he truly who he says he is? This mystery novel is threaded with a dynamic plot and a stunning cast, making this punchy novel a must for anyone who loved ‘Secretariat’ or ‘Black Beauty’.Edgar Wallace (1875-1932) was an English writer, poet and journalist. He was such a prolific writer that his publisher claimed his work could account for a quarter of all books sold in England. He wrote countless books, screenplays, poems and historical non-fiction, spawning over one hundred and sixty films based on his work. He unfortunately passed away suddenly before he could see his most famous creation ‘King Kong’ come to life. It has been adapted several times over the years, notably by Peter Jackson of Lord of the Rings fame, and more recently in ‘Godzilla vs Kong’ starring Millie Bobby Brown.

Who wouldn't want passionate love in their life? Of course, this love is usually accompanied by a lot of jealously, conflict and tragedy and this novel is no exception to that rule! Poor Bathsheba has three different suitors; however will she choose between them? Each suitor adds more uncertainty and complications to the ordered world of Bathsheba and she is soon lost in a vortex of passion, love, and social problems. 'Far from the Madding Crowd' is the novel that brought Thomas Hardy considerable literary success and has been made into a movie many times, most notably in the Oscar-nominated 1967 version. The most recent film is from 2015 and starred Carey Mulligan as Bathsheba, Matthias Schoenaerts as Gabriel Oak and the famous Martin Sheen, Charlie Sheen's dad.-

"I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read in the train."Jack Worthing is an important and respected person in Hertfordshire. Being a guardian to a young girl and an employer of many in the community, the list of his responsibilities is never-ending. His brother, Earnest, however, leads a scandalous life and Jack is often forced to leave for London to sort it out. What no one knows is that Earnest is not real, but Jack’s alibi, his way of creating havoc and blowing off some steam in the big city.The Importance of Being Earnest is Oscar Wilde’s most popular and enduring play. Poking fun at the ridiculousness of human nature, especially that of the Victorian elite, it is both incredibly clever and undeniably silly.It has been performed and made into films and for television many times, most recently in the 2002 film starring Colin Firth, Reese Witherspoon and Judi Dench.Oscar Wilde (1854-1900) was an Irish playwright, novelist, essayist, and poet, famous for ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ and ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ to name a couple. He died in Paris at the age of 46. Oscar Wilde remains one of the best-loved authors in the English-speaking world.

In 'Perilous Play' we are thrust amongst a group of wealthy Southern Belles and boys on a particularly boring day, until a young doctor among them produces treats infused with cannabis. Taking them eagerly, the group soon finds themselves falling through a raucous, cannabis fuelled thrill ride with some almost fatal consequences. In many ways it is the 19th century equivalent of 'Pineapple Express' but with frocks and no Seth Rogen.-

Inspired by true events from the Paris Opera, ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ is the most famous novel from French author Gaston Leroux. A strange phantom haunts the opera, causing fatal accidents on stage and committing some gruesome murders when his demands aren’t met. The phantom soon becomes enamoured with the young singer Christine, becoming her ‘Angel of Music’ and guiding her musical career. However, when Christine’s childhood friend Raoul comes in to her life, the phantom’s jealously will have fatal consequences. It is an immortal tale of love, lust and tragedy. We can all sympathise with the love that never was or could be, in this tale of destructive desire reminiscent of ‘Wuthering Heights’. The novel was famously adapted in 1925, starring Lon Chaney as the Phantom and later arranged into a musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber.Gaston Leroux (1868-1927) was a French author of detective fiction who’s contribution to the genre has drawn parallels to Arthur Conan Doyle. After working for several years as a journalist, he began to write fiction with tremendous success. He is best-known for his novel "The Phantom of the Opera" (1910) which has been successfully adapted numerous times for film and stage productions, most notably in Andrew Lloyd Webber's 1986 musical adaptation. Among his other most notable works are "The Mystery of the Yellow Room", "The Bride and the Sun", and "The Man Who Came Back From the Dead".

‘A Garland for Girls’ is a collection of stories written by Alcott for her own amusement in a time of "enforced confinement". The collection is a wonderful assortment of hopelessly sweet tales of the everyday lives and troubles of a number of young girls. The girls are discovering who they are, how capable they are and learning some valuable life lessons along the way. It is a collection that exemplifies Alcott’s feminist beliefs, by highlighting the importance of virtue, patience and self-reliance. The collection offers a fantastic and compelling read, perfect for anyone who loved ‘Pride and Prejudice’ or ‘Sense and Sensibility’.Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888) was an author, abolitionist and proud feminist. Her family suffered financially while she was growing up and so she was forced to take on multiple jobs in her youth to help provide for her family. Her writing became her outlet, forming her ideas and beliefs in the empowerment of women and people into literature that reverberates to this day. Her most notable works include "Little Women", which is now a movie starring Saoirse Ronan and Timothée Chalamet, its sequel ‘Little Men’ and ‘An Old Fashioned Girl’.

‘A Strange Island’ is Alcott’s take on many Mother Goose characters and tales, Mother Goose being the anonymous poet and writer behind timeless pieces such as ‘Jack and Jill’, ‘Baa Baa Black Sheep’ and ‘Humpty Dumpty’. The tales are perfect for all ages and are jam packed with uplifting anecdotes and soothing moral messages. Alcott incorporates her own characters into these legendary tales to create something wholly new and fantastical, perfect for a quick, joyful nights reading or anyone looking for a trip down memory lane.Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888) was an author, abolitionist and proud feminist. Her family suffered financially while she was growing up and so she was forced to take on multiple jobs in her youth to help provide for her family. Her writing became her outlet, forming her ideas and beliefs in the empowerment of women and people into literature that reverberates to this day. Her most notable works include "Little Women", which is now a movie starring Saoirse Ronan and Timothée Chalamet, its sequel ‘Little Men’ and ‘An Old Fashioned Girl’.

It is the year 1800 and a young medical practitioner has opened his own surgery. Scalpel in hand, he eagerly awaits his first patient. Yet no one comes. Late one night a tall woman dressed all in black mourning attire, a veil covering her face, steps into his practice. The woman does not say a word. Dickens creates a palpable atmosphere with the inclement weather, the mourning clothes and the woman’s chilling request.In true Dickens style, The Black Veil is a Gothic thriller that is sympathetic, mysterious and has a twist you never saw coming.Charles Dickens (1812-1870) was an English author, social critic, and philanthropist. He achieved wide spread popularity and success during his lifetime , and is recognised as a literary genius to this day. He created some of the world’s best fictional characters and is regarded as the best writer of the Victorian era. His writing has inspired its own literary theme and genre with works today being described as ‘Dickensian’ thanks to his contribution to writing. His most famous novels include Oliver Twist (1839), David Copperfield (1850), and Great Expectations (1861), all of which have been adapted to majorly successful and beloved film adaptations.

Originally published under a pseudonym, this tale set in Victorian Britain follows the journey of the simple and sweet governess of the Coventry family, Jean Muir. But all is not as it seems, this sweet governess has a dark secret that might spell the end for the Coventry family. Like a sickness she will worm her way into the hearts of this family, and it will take everything for them not to crumble. It is a tale distinctly unlike anything like Alcott had published before, while still incorporating many larger discussions on social class and the struggle for agency. It is a book that has had a profound impact on feminist literature with its potent plot twists, Gothic imagery and perfectly crafted villain. It is one of Alcott's masterpieces and perfect for anyone who loved 'Jane Eyre'. -

‘The Time Machine’ is a celebrated sci-fi novella by H. G. Wells that was adapted into a movie starring Guy Pearce in 2002. It is the work that helped skyrocket Wells’ career and its impact on the sci-fi genre can still be felt as it is the first usage of the term ‘time machine’. The protagonist travels 800,000 years into the future, and he initially believes that Earth has become a utopia. However, he quickly discovers that Earth is more inequitable than ever as there is an underground race of ape-like creatures that ensure the society above remains blissful. These violent creatures capture the protagonist's time machine, and he must journey through the dark and dangerous underground caves to retrieve it. ‘The Time Machine’ is a gripping read as Wells’ descriptions of the futuristic world and its inhabitants are strikingly disturbing. This is an incredibly poignant story as Wells criticises the rising inequality of Victorian Britain which is still relevant to this day. The blend of adventure and sentimentality in this strange and dark future turns the novel into a remarkable read that fans of shows such as ‘Doctor Who’ and directors such as Jordan Peele will find difficult to put down.H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a celebrated English writer, remembered mostly for his science fiction works. Often described as a futurist, H. G. Wells’ influence cannot be overstated for his works foresaw many technological innovations such as space travel, the atomic bomb, and the Internet. A four-time Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, Wells explored a wide array of themes in his works, from religion to social criticism and beyond. Some of his best works include the time-travel novel ‘The Time Machine’, the sci-fi adventure novel ‘The Island of Dr. Moreau’, and the mankind-versus-aliens novel ‘The War of the Worlds’. Wells occupies one of the central seats in the canon of science-fiction literature and his writing inspired other celebrated authors such as Ray Bradbury and Philip K. Dick. Wells’ stories are still widely read to this day and have had numerous cinematic adaptations including ‘The Invisible Man’ starring Elisabeth Moss.

"Women have a wonderful instinct about things. They can discover everything except the obvious."Sir Robert Chiltern is a moral and upstanding politician with a wife who adores and idolizes him, but when one of her old classmates shows up at their party the image of her perfect husband crumbles. She learns that, in the early days of her husband’s political career, he sold a state secret in order to advance his position. Now the couple has to deal with blackmail and their own moral failings.'An Ideal Husband' is a must-read for Wilde fans and anyone who appreciates wit and sarcasm. In 1999 an adaptation starring Julianne Moore, Minnie Driver and Cate Blanchett came out to great reviews.Oscar Wilde (1854-1900) was an Irish playwright, novelist, essayist, and poet, famous for ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ and ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ to name a couple. He died in Paris at the age of 46.The Importance of Being Earnest is Oscar Wilde’s most popular and enduring play. Poking fun at the ridiculousness of human nature, especially that of the Victorian elite, it is both incredibly clever and undeniably silly.It has been performed and made into films and for television many times, most recently in the 2002 film starring Colin Firth, Reese Witherspoon and Judi Dench.

"e;One is impressed in America, but not favourably impressed, by the inordinate size of everything. The country seems to try to bully one into a belief in its power by its impressive bigness."e;In 1881 Oscar Wilde boarded the "e;Arizona"e; and sailed to New York to embark on a year-long lecture tour. In 'Impressions of America' he examines the cultural differences between America and Britain. He notes, for instance, that the Americans aren't necessarily well-dressed but comfortably dressed. He argues that the American youth is more acceptive of new ideas because their education is more practical, and he recounts how unimpressed he was with Niagara Falls and the ugly yellow protective wear he had to put on. Like Charles Dickens' 'American Notes for General Circulation' from some forty years prior, this essay is both entertaining and thought-provoking.-

Imagine being torn away from the person you love most in the world! The pain would be just too terrible to bear! This is exactly what happens to Shah Mah Phru after she falls passionately in love with King Meng GengThe king promises to return but time passes, and he never does. One day, Shah Mah Phru spots a group of horsemen riding her way, and she is overcome with joy thinking her lover has finally returned, however the horsemen bring news she could never have predicted.Oscar Wilde wrote 'For Love of the King' for his friend Mabel Cosgrove, and it was not published until after his death, in the 1920's. Its publication sparked a great deal of controversy that resulted in a trial because Mabel Cosgrove was accused of having written the play herself.A great read for any short story and Oscar Wilde fan.-

'Work: A Story of Experience' is a semi-autobiographical novel loosely based on Alcott's own life, which explores the social standing of women in the US, in the years around the Civil War. Christie, our heroine, is a single woman who works outside the home doing a number of odd jobs to make ends meet. This story tracks the change in women's work with the dawn of the new industrial age, the meaning of work to women and the tension and dilemmas that came with this work. It is a story of women trying to find their place in the world, in a society that continually hampers their progress. It is a mature story full of insightful and uplifting anecdotes, that gives an excellent window in to Alcott's own life as well. It is a profoundly uplifting read, with a triumphant conclusion that makes perfect reading for any fans of underdog stories.-

'Hospital Sketches' is a collection of four sketches based on Alcott's time as a nurse for the Union during the American Civil War. The sketches follow Tribulation Periwinkle a bored city girl who decides against being a teacher, acting or getting married to instead serve on the front nursing the soldiers. It is a sensitive, heart-warming, humorous collection that made Alcott an overnight sensation. The horrors of war contrasted with the human goodness in these dark times make the collection incredibly compelling, creating an intelligent and remarkable insight in to the horrors of the civil war. It is a collection perfect for lovers of short stories and history buffs alike.-

France - Delicious food, beautiful buildings and an elegance of people rarely seen anywhere else!Dear reader, take my hand and enjoy this tour de France – with Henry James as your guide. Written as a first person narrative, "A Little Tour in France" is one of James’ most influential and interesting travel guides. Of course, the tour is not that "little" for the reader is invited to visit the Loire Valley, Britanny, the Bordeaux region, Provence, and Paris. And, in a typical Jamesian style, he never fails to describe the people he meets and their view of life and nature. A valuable book from James’ priceless treasure.Henry James (1843–1916) is regarded as one of the greatest novelists in the English language. Born in the United States, but mainly living and working in Europe, he was largely occupied with the clash of personalities and cultures between the Old World and the New World.He explored this topic in his famous novels 'The Portrait of a Lady' and 'The Wings of the Dove'. James was thrice nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature."The Portrait of a Lady" has been adapted for the big screen many times with the most notable being from 1996 starring Nicole Kidman and John Malkovich.

‘An Old Fashioned Girl’ is a tale of the country girl in the big city before it had ever been done. Polly Milton, on a visit to her wealthy city dweller friend Fanny Shaw, is completely in awe at the splendour of their home and clothes. She is treated like a bumpkin, but soon wins the hearts of the family with her sweet heart and gentle honesty. When financial troubles arise, this country girl rises to the occasion to save her friends. It is a tale packed with romance, drama and hard hitting life lessons. Perfect for anyone that loved ‘Sex and the City’ just with frocks and corsets instead of Sarah Jessica Parker and Fendi.Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888) was an author, abolitionist and proud feminist. Her family suffered financially while she was growing up and so she was forced to take on multiple jobs in her youth to help provide for her family. Her writing became her outlet, forming her ideas and beliefs in the empowerment of women and people into literature that reverberates to this day. Her most notable works include "Little Women", which is now a movie starring Saoirse Ronan and Timothée Chalamet, its sequel ‘Little Men’ and ‘An Old Fashioned Girl’.

An uplifting rom-com about heartache and finding love again, 'The Spring of Second Chances' follows Phoebe who has spent the past year living under a cloud. She is determined to make a change in her life now and wants to fall in love for a second time after she lost the man she loved in a tragic accident.She has found her dream job, but there are a magnitude of stresses which have come with it. When single-dad Jack walks into her life, is she ready to fall in love again or is it too soon for her to get over her heartbreak?A story about second chances, this is a feel good read that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. For fans of Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Josie SilverTilly has sold over 290,000 copies.Previously published as four novellas and in the collection Mishaps in Millrise.From a young age, Tilly Tennant was convinced that she was destined for the stage. Once she realised she wasn’t actually very good at anything that would put her on the stage, she started to write stories instead. There were lots of terrible ones, like The Pet Rescue Gang (aged eight), which definitely should not see the light of day ever again. Thankfully, her debut novel, Hopelessly Devoted to Holden Finn was not one of those, and since it hit the Amazon best seller lists she hasn’t looked back. Born in Dorset, she currently lives in Staffordshire.

A laugh-out-loud, heart-warming read for every parent who has struggled bleary-eyed through toddler tantrums, school fancy dress fails and found unlikely friendships over wine and cakeAs a single mom, Frankie’s bold and brave, and right now she’s winning at life – isn’t she? Underneath her big smile and daring outfits, she’s hiding a secret. Her five-year-old son Liam is awesome. But life as a solo parent is tough. Her job as a barmaid sucks, her meddling mother is taking over and she’s far from living her best life.Maybe she’s lost her way and starting to feel... lonely.When Frankie’s overbearing mother breaks her leg and has to go and live with her saintly sister, it’s time for Frankie to hit shuffle and shake things up. Because she wants to turn things around for the little boy who holds the keys to her broken heart.Surrounded by perfect mothers, Frankie realises she needs some real mum friends to get her through the repetitive school runs and red-faced dating disasters. The kind of people who won’t judge your shop bought cakes and will bring wine to your door, just because.So Frankie sweeps up anxious Kate and organised Alison in her whirlwind. As the trio face the troubles and trials of motherhood, they learn that parenting is about taking one day at a time. And together they can wing it through anything, can’t they?Perfect for fans of The UnMumsy Mum, Why Mummy Drinks and Poppy Dolan.A 5-star must-read: ‘Oh my goodness this book is so so funny! It will have you laughing until you cry!... A fantastically funny read!’ - Jessica’s Book Biz‘A brilliant, laugh out loud read... I loved the characters... it really is the perfect read... such a wonderful novel... I highly recommend this book’ Lead Reads Books‘Made me laugh out loud with a big beamer of a smile on my face... A fabulous, fun-filled, gentle read which will make you laugh.’ The Writing Garnet‘EVERYONE can enjoy this book, even if you are not a mum. There is something for everyone I promise. I was laughing out loud a lot.’ Zooloo’s Book BlogGrowing up in Birmingham, Pippa James was never without at least one book on the go and therefore lived several different lives concurrently. As an adult, she would like to spend much of her time the same way, but she now lives a chaotic life in a small Derbyshire town with her husband and two children. Her writing is frequently interrupted by parenting duties and her day job as a teacher and the only way she can find a quiet space to think, is by taking her laptop to the pub, which she does at every opportunity.

Unfairly dismissed from her role as a governess after her lecherous employer forces himself upon her, Druscilla Morley is determined to keep her head down. Dressing drably to hide her beauty, she is surprised to find an old acquaintance staying with her new family. Valdo, Lord Marquis of Lynche, is handsome, charming and an absolute rogue. It soon becomes clear that he is having an affair with the lady of the house and proposes a marriage of convenience to Druscilla to cover his tracks.From miserable governess to Marchioness of Lynche, Druscilla can hardly believe her luck but are her feelings for the Lord Marquis as uncomplicated as it seems?An early contender in the fake dating genre, "The Audacious Adventuress" is perfect for fans of Julia Quinn, Eloisa James and Merry Farmer.In her lifetime, British author Barbara Cartland wrote over 700 novels and was most famous for her contemporary and historical romances.A prominent figure in London society, the young Cartland began her writing career as a gossip columnist for the Daily Express. It was partying in 1920's London that gave her inspiration for her first book, "Jigsaw", a racy society thriller.After marrying into the McCorquodale family, she began writing romance and holds a Guinness World Record for the most number of books published in one year: 191. Her books have been translated into many different languages, as well as adapted for stage and screen. She is beloved the world over and even counts the young Princess Diana as one of her many fans.

From casual hook up ... to something more?Burlesque dancer Charlie Kent should be happy performing and hooking up with sexy people now that the pandemic is over, just like before. But now it feels empty. The audience always seems to be missing Elle - her friend-with-benefits. They were just casual, but Charlie now realises she wants more. Much more. But when Elle arrives at Seraph’s Burlesque Club on business, Charlie is not going to let this second chance go to waste.Elle’s interior design business has been booming since the pandemic with so much work she’s barely thought of the sexy-as-sin burlesque dancer who she used to hook up with.... except when she’s lonely all night. But she can’t be just friends anymore, so she stays away. When she is commissioned to refit Seraph's Burlesque Club, Elle bumps into Charlie, and all her best intentions go straight out of the perfectly dressed window.Elle must keep her professional reputation intact, and can’t allow her attraction to Charlie to derail her work and her need for love.... But what if she can have it all?‘Show Off’ is the second installment in the "Seraph’s Burlesque Club" series following ‘Show Up’ – a series of lesbian romances set in a London burlesque club.Perfect for readers who love a steamy read with friends (with benefits) to lovers plot. If you love reading about a found family with queer people who thrive, this series has that and more.Trigger warnings – Please note that this book contains mentions of the following:-tReferences to the pandemic - as the book is set in a post-COVID London where everyone is vaccinated-tReferences to a character having covid-tParental fat shaming of a main character-tParental manipulation-tA broken armA writer of Sassy Daring Romance, Renée Dahlia is an unabashed romance reader who loves feisty women and strong & clever men. Her books reflect this, with a hint of awkward humour.Renée has a science degree in physics. When not distracted by the characters fighting for her, she works in the horseracing industry doing data analysis and writing magazine articles.When she isn’t reading or writing, Renée spends her time with her partner and four children, usually watching them play cricket.

Set in the frontier town of Gold Sky, Colorado, young Florence Wickes-Barnes reputation as a dramatic and passionate individual precedes her. Little do the townspeople know that below the fiery surface, all Florence longs for is a love as steady and kind as that of her mother and two fathers. When Florence spots Ansel Ortega and Brenden Black together – clearly deeply in love, she decides to find out if they can make room in their hearts for her too. ‘Three to Love’ is the fourth in the ‘Gold Sky’ historical romance series by American author Rebel Carter.Rebel Carter is a romance novelist from Colorado, USA. Her books are packed with passion, intriguing and dynamic characters, and plenty of steamy scenes. A writer of both contemporary and historical romance fiction, Carter is an exciting new voice in the romance genre.

Time is running out for Mary Sophia James, who has come to the frontier town of Gold Sky, Montana at her mother’s insistence. Mary needs to find a husband fast – before her condition becomes too obvious. When Mary spots the gorgeous Alex Pierce across the town square one day though, her world is turned upside down. Not only is Alex beautiful and intriguing – she is also a woman. A dramatic and passionate historical romance in the ‘Gold Sky’ series by author Rebel Carter.Rebel Carter is a romance novelist from Colorado, USA. Her books are packed with passion, intriguing and dynamic characters, and plenty of steamy scenes. A writer of both contemporary and historical romance fiction, Carter is an exciting new voice in the romance genre.

"Personal Clout" is an entertaining and honest guide to speaking publicly. This book will teach you how to effectively get your message across to other people - a skill in high demand from managers and employers.After becoming a bestselling book in Europe, Jesper Klit's "Personal Clout" is now available for the first time in English. Learn as the author shares some of the invaluable tools, lessons and methods he has picked up during the decades of experience he has from working as a communications consultant, TV journalist and media lecturer. By reading about the seven effective habits common among the world's best communicators, you will receive guidance and inspiration to strengthen your ability to cut through the fog and achieve the attention you deserve.The 7 habits Jesper Klit explores are:1. Know Yourself2. Plan Your Success3. Say What Your Body is Saying4. Cast Yourself5. Involve Your Audience6. Design and Tell Effective Stories7. Train Your Personal CloutJesper Klit is a Communications Adviser, Director of Jesper Klit & Partners, and moreover he is one of the most popular and inspiring European speakers in the fields of communication and leadership. Jesper specializes in the development of personal clout, media coaching, and business storytelling. He advises a number of companies and leaders – from prime ministers to CEOs – on issues relating to personal and strategic communication. Furthermore, he is the author of several books on media, communication, and leadership.

A fake date ... a real secretAn invitation to her ex's wedding is just the icing on a crappy cake for burlesque dancer Yolande. Her ex ghosted her just as they were about to take the stage for their neo-burlesque act. Yolande’s friends at Seraph's Burlesque Club convince her that attending the wedding will show her ex that she's moved on. Only one problem - she just needs a date.Shy bartender Reiko has a secret, or two. She can't risk anyone discovering that her life as a penniless PhD student and bartender is a sham. And even though she's been in love with Yolande forever, when Yolande needs a plus-one to save face at her the wedding, Reiko knows any fantasy of romance is just that – a fantasy. Yolande will never notice the way Reiko looks at her.When the drama of the wedding reveals a spark of attraction between them, Reiko will have to risk her fake identity for the chance at true love.‘Show Up’ is the first installment in the "Seraph’s Burlesque Club" – a series of lesbian romances set in a London burlesque club.Perfect for readers who love a steamy read with friends (with benefits) to lovers plot. If you love reading about a found family with queer people who thrive, this series has that and more.Trigger warnings – Please note that this book contains mentions of the following:-tReferences to a character’s mother dying in a car crash prior to the book-tA minor discussion of racism-tReferences to the pandemic - as the book is set in a post-COVID London where everyone is vaccinatedA writer of Sassy Daring Romance, Renée Dahlia is an unabashed romance reader who loves feisty women and strong & clever men. Her books reflect this, with a hint of awkward humour.Renée has a science degree in physics. When not distracted by the characters fighting for her, she works in the horseracing industry doing data analysis and writing magazine articles.When she isn’t reading or writing, Renée spends her time with her partner and four children, usually watching them play cricket.

Set in the fictional medieval land of Aldland, Lady Natalie Blackmere has long dreamt of somehow meeting the famous champions of Aldland – in particular the legendary Brandon the Bear. When the champions arrive in Blackmere, Natalie disguises herself as a barmaid and sets out to meet Brandon – the hero of so many ballads. When the town is attacked by bandits however, Natalie finds herself alone in the woods with the man she has been dreaming about for so long. The Lady’s Champion is the first in the ‘Hearts of Blackmere’ series by erotic romance author Marie Lipscomb.Marie Lipscomb is a romance author from the north of England. Now based in the USA where she lives with her husband, Marie first fell in love with storytelling when she studied creative writing at the University of Cumbria. Her stories are full of unlikely heroes, fantastical elements, and steamy romance. She is the author of the ‘Hearts of Blackmere’ and ‘Vixens Rock’ series.

Growing up is difficult. It is even more difficult when surrounded by vile gossips, evil eyes, and bad-tempered fishermen!When you live in a trivial fishing community on the coast of Maine this is a part of everyday life. Just ask Mara and she will tell you all about it.This is a vivid and interesting story about Mara Lincoln, a young woman called "The Pearl". She has a troubled childhood, raised by her grandparents because her mother died giving birth to her and her father drowned. As she becomes older, Mara finds herself tangled up in various adventures on her coming-of-age path.An interesting and adventurous read recommended for both fans of Stowe and everyone who enjoys realism, classics and American fiction.A thorn in the angry eyes of American slave owners, Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811-1896) was an American author and ardent abolitionist. Her novel 'Uncle Tom’s Cabin' (1852) became one of the most famous literary attacks on slavery at the time. The novel was also turned into a play and adapted to the movie screen more than once. The latest version from 1987 features Samuel L. Jackson, one of the most popular actors of his generation.Stowe also wrote numerous travel memoirs, letters, articles, and short stories – all crucial to the depiction of the injustice of African Americans we still hear about today.

Countess Marie de Vandenesse, bored out of her mind in a marriage to a good man, decides to adopt an up-and-coming young playwright, Raoul Nathan, as her lover. Mistakenly believing his fortune is made, Nathan quickly finds himself wading into deep waters...One of Balzac's most delightful and happy-go-lucky tales, this is certainly a recommended rainy day read. Written by the French author who, along with Flaubert, is widely regarded to be one of the founding fathers of realism in European fiction.Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for his collection of novels and plays, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His detailed observation of humanity and realistic depiction of society makes him one of the earliest representatives of realism in Europe. He was a master-creator of complex characters that often found themselves in ambiguous moral dilemmas.